Norwegian Units of Unifil Come Under Fire from Terrorists

April 6, 1978

TEL AVIV (Apr. 5)

Norwegian units of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) came under terrorist mortar fire yesterday near the Khardala Bridge in the eastern sector of the Litani River front in South Lebanon. There were no casualties. The Norwegians took shelter in sand-bagged positions but did not return the fire which came from the Beaufort Castle, a terrorist held strongpoint north of the Litani.

Eight mortar shells were fired at the Norwegians and automatic fire was directed at the Christian village of Marj Ayoun. The Lebanese Christian militia, commanded by Maj. Sa’ad Haddad, returned the fire. The Litani front was quiet today.

Israel, meanwhile, is preparing a new open fence on the Lebanese border near Manera for the benefit of Shi’a Moslems in nearby villages. The open fence at Metullah will be shifted several hundred meters from its present location to avoid damage to crops and ease traffic on the main road which is lined with summer homes.